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South Africans in Germany

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    Volunteering

    People from 3rd world countries can apply to do volunteer service in Germany. 
    There are four types of Voluntary services in Germany that you can apply for, they are:

      1. Federal Voluntary Service (BFD),
      2. Voluntary Social Year (FSJ),
      3. Voluntary Ecological Year (FÖJ),
      4. European Voluntary Service (EVS)

    Before you can apply for a visa, you will need a Contract/Arrangement for your voluntary service in Germany. Also, take note of the following as specified on the German Embassy website. 

    • Federal Voluntary Service (BFD): Your contract must be signed by you and the Federal Office of Family Affairs and Civil Society Functions (BAFzA), as well as the placement department, headquarters and, where applicable, by the institution implementing the voluntary service.
    • Voluntary Social Year (FSJ)/Voluntary Ecological Year (FOJ): Your contract must be signed by you and the respective institution, as well as, where applicable, the placement department.
    • European Voluntary Service (EVS): Your contract must be signed by the National Agency for Erasmus+ Youth in Action and the coordinating organisation. The Volunteer Arrangement, in which the tasks and planned participant achievements are described, must be signed by the coordinating organisation and the volunteer.

    FSJ

    Age 16–27 years
    Duration 6–18 months
    Focus Social services, schools, kindergartens, care facilities

    FÖJ

    Age 16–27 years
    Duration 6–18 months
    Focus Environmental protection, sustainability and conservation projects

    BFD

    Age All ages (27+ welcome)
    Duration 6–24 months
    Focus Social, educational, cultural and community projects

    ESC

    Age Usually 18–30 years
    Duration 2–12 months
    Focus European solidarity, youth and community projects

    Where to find a voluntary service

    Here is a list of websites where you can search for a voluntary service

    Expectations, Responsibilities & Safety

    Important info

    • The volunteer period can be between 6 and 24 months, but most are no longer than 18 months.
    • For the FSJ and FÖJ, you must be between the ages of 16 and 27
    • Accommodation, meals and an allowance are normally included in an FSJ and FÖJ. 
    • You can still volunteer if you are over the age of 27 Years. You need to then apply for a  BFD. This is more complicated to obtain from outside Germany than the FSJ and FÖJ. Typical placements can be at Schools, Churches and Kindergartens. Special rules about hours may apply.
    •  Some institutions may require German language proficiency and/or some skill level
    •  Make sure you know what is included in your contract, and make sure you have it in writing

    Reality Check

    Volunteering in Germany can be rewarding, but it is not a holiday.

    Volunteers are expected to:

    • Arrive on time
    • Participate actively
    • Respect German workplace culture
    • Complete agreed duties
    • Follow programme rules


    Living abroad can also be challenging, especially during the first few months when adjusting to a new language and culture.

    Stay Safe

    • Never pay large fees for a volunteer placement.
    • Verify organisations before sending documents.
    • Read contracts carefully.
    • Use official programme websites whenever possible.

    Why do volunteering?

    Volunteering offers you a chance to make a social or ecological difference.  Here are some additional perks

    • You can meet new people in a new environment.
    • You will learn more about the language and culture
    • You will gain experience in  different competencies 
    • You will gain references
    • You will enhance your social skills
    • Learn more about social welfare or ecological responsibilities 
    • You can learn more about a career if you are interested in social careers like teaching or nursing

    Tips for Applying for a Voluntary Service in Germany

    • Start early
      Many volunteer programmes recruit several months in advance. Start looking for opportunities at least 6–12 months before your intended departure date.
    • Apply to multiple organisations
      Volunteer placements can be competitive. Applying to several organisations increases your chances of receiving an offer.
    • Prepare a strong motivation letter
      Explain why you want to volunteer, what skills and experience you can bring, and what you hope to learn from the experience.
    • Be honest about your German language skills
      Some placements require little or no German, while others expect volunteers to communicate with children, elderly people, or the public. Being honest helps organisations find the right placement for you.
    • Research the host organisation
      Before applying, learn about the organisation’s mission and activities. Tailoring your application shows genuine interest.
    • Check what financial support is included
      Volunteer programmes often provide accommodation, meals, pocket money, health insurance, or language courses. Make sure you understand exactly what is covered.
    • Keep copies of all documents
      Save copies of your contract, visa documents, insurance information, and correspondence with the organisation.
    • Prepare for the visa process
      Visa applications can take several weeks or months. Gather all required documents as soon as you receive your volunteer contract.
    • Be open-minded
      Volunteering is not only about helping others. It is also an opportunity to experience a new culture, develop independence, and build lifelong friendships.
    • Ask questions before signing
      If anything in the contract is unclear, ask for clarification. Make sure you understand your duties, working hours, accommodation arrangements, and benefits before committing.

    Common Reasons Applications Are Rejected

    • Incomplete application documents
    • Applying too late
    • Not meeting age requirements (for FSJ/FÖJ)
    • Insufficient language skills for the placement
    • Unclear motivation for volunteering
    • Missing visa documentation

    Additional information

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